On Tuesday, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, officiated the swearing-in ceremony of Senator Monday Okpebholo, marking his official induction as the sixth executive governor of the state.
This momentous event was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, political leaders, and members of the public, all eager to witness the beginning of Okpebholo’s administration.
Okpebholo succeeded former Governor Godwin Obaseki, who previously held the position as the fifth governor of Edo State.
Obaseki’s tenure was marked by various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and education, as well as addressing issues of governance within the state.
As Okpebholo steps into this new role, he inherits both the achievements and challenges left by his predecessor. The transition represents a pivotal moment for Edo State, as Okpebholo is expected to build on the foundation laid by Obaseki while introducing his own policies and vision for the future of the state.
He won the election with 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 247, 244 votes in the September 21 Edo Governorship election.
The Chief Judge of Edo State also swore in the Deputy Governor of the state, Mr. Dennis Idahosa, who was accompanied by his wife and close associates.
The epoch-making event was witnessed by family, friends, and political associates of the governor and his deputy as well as the members ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) including leaders and party supporters from home and abroad.
The former governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State absent at the inauguration of his successor last Friday, held a valedictory session at the Government House, Benin City, where he dissolved his cabinet made up of Commissioners and Special Advisers.
At the valedictory session, the former governor commended members of the State Executive Council for helping him in his vision of making Edo great again, delivering on all promises made to the people.